Rugby Union: Doncaster Phoenix sign former Knights ace Jamie Lennard

Lennard, whose career included a spell in the Premiership with London Irish, announced his retirement from the professional game at the end of last season at the age of 29.

But he has signed up to play and coach at Phoenix who will operate in North East Division One next season after an extraordinary Yorkshire One campaign that saw the club crowned champions after winning every single game.

Lennard follows in the recent footsteps of the likes of ex-Knights stalwarts Chris Planchant and Adam Kettle to join Phoenix.

DRFC rugby development manager Ants Posa said: “Jamie has joined the ranks, taking the role of backs and skills coach.

“The main thing that I believe Jamie will bring to the club, aside from his playing ability, is his experience and leadership.

“We have a lot of very young guys in our back line.

“If you take away our captain Andy Ellis, the majority of the backs are 21 and under so to have someone of Jamie’s experience on the pitch with these young players can only be beneficial.”

Phoenix have also signed Dan Porter from Selby and former Doncaster junior Alex Keaton. They began their pre-season training last night at Castle Park.